I recently came across Jython in a book published back in 2010, titled "Introduction to Computing and Programming in Python - A Multimedia Approach" by Mark Guzdial and Barbara Ericson. I've never used it before, so I'm curious if Jython is still a relevant tool in today's programming landscape. What has it been used for, and is it worth learning?
4 Answers
There are still a few instances where Jython is relevant, like in specific SCADA software. But overall, it's mostly been left behind as industry has transitioned towards languages that better support the latest Python features.
Yeah, and honestly, who wants to work with outdated tools?
Jython is an implementation of Python that runs on the Java platform, allowing you to call Python code from Java. However, it hasn't kept up with the more recent developments in Python since it only supports Python 2.x. This makes it less relevant nowadays, as the community has mostly shifted to other implementations like CPython. If you're considering Jython, you might want to look at alternatives like GraalPython, which supports Python 3.11 and runs on the Java platform.
Yeah, and GraalPython seems to have replaced Jython as the go-to for running Python in Java environments.
MicroPython and CircuitPython are cool too, but they aren't fully-fledged Python—they're inspired by it.
It’s not widely used anymore, except maybe in some niche areas, like a small Minecraft project called PySpigot. Generally, its applications have dwindled since Python has evolved and moved away from Java-centric usage.
Haha, so true! But hey, every tool has its moment, right?
At least it still finds some use in gaming!
I used to teach programming with it back in the day, and while it had some fun multimedia features for learning, we ultimately transitioned away because it didn’t prepare students for real-world Python applications effectively. It's mostly seen as obsolete now.
Wow, sounds like a solid approach! Understanding transitions is key in learning.
Totally! It’s always about equipping learners for the current tech landscape.
Unfortunately, that’s true! It’s a shame because it had some useful features.